Early beginnings

Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times

Born Sept. 19, 1974, James Thomas "Jimmy" Fallon started his career as a stand-up comedian and studied at the Groundlings Theater in Los Angeles. In 2001, he released his comedy album "The Bathroom Wall" to mixed reviews.

Born Sept. 19, 1974, James Thomas "Jimmy" Fallon started his career as a stand-up comedian and studied at the Groundlings Theater in Los Angeles. In 2001, he released his comedy album "The Bathroom Wall" to mixed reviews. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

Born Sept. 19, 1974, James Thomas "Jimmy" Fallon started his career as a stand-up comedian and studied at the Groundlings Theater in Los Angeles. In 2001, he released his comedy album "The Bathroom Wall" to mixed reviews.